The Best Carry-On Luggage, According to Our Editors

Rimowa
Rimowa
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Anticipating a busy travel season? Before booking your next flight or making any hotel reservations, you'll want to make sure that you have a good suitcase on hand. Airports are busier than ever these days, and with so many cases of delayed flights and lost luggage, we prefer to keep our packing light with carry-on bags and personal carry-on items only.

When shopping for the best carry-on luggage, oftentimes the biggest challenge is simply finding a silhouette that has all of the right features. Your needs will likely vary depending on your trip and travel style, so there are a couple of things to consider before making your next investment — especially concerning the carry-on's size, material, and brand.

What to Consider When Shopping For Carry-On Luggage

With so many different types of luggage sets on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to determine which model is best for you. If you're a business traveler, you might prefer carry-on luggage with pockets because these pieces will help you keep any useful gadgets more organized. Whereas if you're someone who jets off on high-intensity adventures, you'll likely want a hardside carry-on that's durable enough to keep up with you and your sporty lifestyle.

Whether you're traveling internationally, spending time with family, or have tight connections and don't want to wait for a checked bag, carry-on luggage is such a worthwhile investment. Ahead, our expert editors rounded up the best carry-ons that will help make your next trip more organized. Whether you're looking for something lightweight and easy to carry or you want a designer piece that's more of a splurge, there's an option that's sure to fit every traveler's needs. From luggage brands like Monos, Paravel, Rimowa, and Away, there are plenty of price points to shop, so everyone can find their new favorite. Take a look at our top picks for the best carry-on bags ahead, and get ready to fly!

01
Best Affordable Carry-On Luggage
PS Photography | Marisa Petrarca

Best Affordable Carry-On Luggage

iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech 20" Carry-on Luggage ($68, originally $78)

This iFLY Hardside Luggage proves that you don't need to dish out a ton of money in order to get a quality suitcase. The durable carry-on has more than 37,000 near-perfect reviews on Walmart's website, with shoppers all raving about the product's sturdy build, practical interior compartments, and sleek design. With an under-$100 price tag, you really can't beat this model's affordability. Best of all, it's also a PS editor-favorite. Read our review of the iFly Hardside Luggage to see why.

Editor Quote: "This carry-on is best for those looking for a reasonably priced, chic design with thoughtful features that make traveling easier — and thus, more enjoyable." — Marisa Petrarca, contributing editor, Shopping

02
Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage
amazon.com

Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage

Coolife Expandable Suitcase ($80)

This expandable carry-on suitcase is one of Amazon's highest rated luggage pieces, and features more than 10,000 rave reviews from shoppers. If you want more than just a carry-on, this model also comes in two larger sizes, so you can stock up on the full set. This piece is a great bag for all types of family vacations; and since it comes in six different colors, each person can get their own shade, so everyone will know which bag belongs to them.

03
Best Small Carry-On Luggage
meetnex.com

Best Small Carry-On Luggage

Nex Pioneer Carry On: Hawaii Edition ($185)

Nex's Pioneer Carry On is ideal for those who want something durable and minimalist with a bit of luxe flair. The interior of this carry-on features a unique, velvety-soft fabric that is water-, bacterial-, and mold-resistant. It has a full zipper cover to keep things secure and compressed, with two zippered pockets on the outside. This carry-on is also 20 inches tall, which is on the smaller side, making it compact enough for over 30 different airlines' overhead bins. Featuring a polycarbonate exterior and smooth gliding wheels, this no-frills option is great if you're looking for something simple, but made with high-quality materials. Read more in our review of the Nex Pioneer Carry On here.

Editor Quote: "When I travel with hair tools or items that can potentially break while in transit, I usually wrap them in clothes for extra protection. However, this next-level interior features a smooth material the brand calls VelvetWeave that offers protection from the bumps of traveling — it's like I'm carrying my essentials in a giant jewelry box." — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Shopping

04
Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel
PS Photography | Angela Elias

Best Carry-On Luggage For International Travel

Béis The International 21-Inch Carry-On Roller ($330)

International flights often have different size requirements for carry-ons than domestic ones. Fortunately, this carry-on roller from Shay Mitchell's beloved travel brand, Béis, is designed especially for international travelers, with ample interior space that can hold all of your essentials — despite its compact frame. For the full product details, see our review of the Béis International Carry-On Roller.

Editor Quote: "This suitcase is ideal for recently converted over-packers who still want to fit a good amount of items without having to check a bag. Aside from the expansion gusset, it also has compression straps to help flatten everything so you can close it smoothly. If you want your suitcase to have a built-in organizational system with several zippered compartments, you'll appreciate the thoughtful design." — Angela Elias, contributing editor, Shopping

05
Best Spinner Carry-On Luggage
us.delsey.com

Best Spinner Carry-On Luggage

Delsey Turenne Expandable Carry-On with Laptop Pocket ($248, originally $330)

Navigating through a busy airport can feel like enough of a challenge — especially after a long travel day. But with this spinner carry-on suitcase, you'll have no problem weaving your way through even the longest security and boarding lines. We love the product's sleek design and that it features a practical zippered compartment on the front. Full-motion wheels give it the ability to move around in any and every direction. One PS editor called it the "ultimate summer travel essential" in this review of the Delsey Turenne Spinner Pocket Carry-On.

Editor Quote: "The luggage provides all the same convenience and functionality as a traditional carry-on, just in a more practical, user-friendly design. If you have large tech items like a laptop or iPad that you don't necessarily want to use during your flight, it's easy to stow your items away in the product's large front zipper compartment after going through security." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Shopping

06
Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage
PS Photography | Macy Cate Williams

Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage

July Carry-On ($295)

If you're looking for something lightweight, we suggest the July Carry-On, which is a PS editor favorite. The crush-proof German shell is sturdy, yet light, and it also has an ejectable battery that'll keep your phone charged. It's available to shop in 13 colors, so you'll be sure to find your new favorite. Plus, it even comes with a hidden laundry bag, which is a lifesaver for trips of all lengths. For a small price, you can even get it monogrammed, which will certainly ensure you know which suitcase is yours. For more details, check out our full review of the July Carry-On.

Editor Quote: "Beyond being incredibly light (so important to me!), the suitcase has a couple special features that really impress me. First, by the handle of the carry-on, there's an ejectable battery that charges both your phone and your laptop — so convenient! If you don't want to travel with the charger, you simply pop it out and leave it at home." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Shopping

07
Best Large Carry-On Luggage
awaytravel.com

Best Large Carry-On Luggage

Away Carry-On Flex ($325)

The bestselling Away Carry-On Flex is an internet favorite. While it comes in a classic model, the brand also has this handy expandable option. It's a smart choice for a weekend trip — if you buy something, you'll have room to bring it back. This bag would be considered a carry-on when not fully expanded, but if you were to utilize the feature, some airlines may require you to check the bag. Learn why one PS editor called this product the "one suitcase she can't live without" in this Away luggage review.

Editor Quote: "In comparison to other carry-on luggage, I was shocked at how easy it was to roll the bag through the airport . . . even as I was running to catch my flight. Since I am short and sometimes struggle to lift extremely full carry-ons into the luggage rack above my seat on a plane, the Away being lightweight was a big factor for me." — Hilary White, former editor

08
Best Carry-On Luggage With Pockets
PS Photography | Anvita Reddy

Best Carry-On Luggage With Pockets

July Carry On Luggage With Pockets ($325)

Whether you're a frequent business traveler or just someone who prefers to keep their tech with them at all times, this carry-on suitcase features practical front pockets that are ideal for those looking to keep their laptops, iPads, or even headphones organized while flying. Unlike other hard side carry-ons, this model features external zippered compartments to help you stow away any extra items you might not want in your personal carry-on bag during the flight. Plus, one editor said the product's design made getting through airport security "a breeze," in this review of the July Carry-On Luggage with Pockets.

Editor Quote: "If you prioritize convenience in your life, especially while traveling, then the July Carry On Pro suitcase is definitely worth the splurge. Whether it's the easy-access detachable laptop sleeve, the ejectable portable battery, the hidden laundry bag, or the smooth-gliding 360-degree spinner wheels, this carry-on is built to make traveling a breeze." — Anvita Reddy, assistant editor, Shopping

09
Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage
monos.com

Best Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Monos Hybrid Carry-On ($355)

If packing light is hard for you, try investing in a suitcase with useful pockets — like this Monos Hybrid Carry-On. The compression straps are extra helpful for when you need to strap it all down, and its handy pockets make packing smart easy. There's even a larger carry-on choice if you typically fly domestically, and it's even an editor favorite. You can read our review of the Monos Hybrid Carry-On suitcase.

Editor Quote: "My favorite thing about this bag is its inside features. One side zips and has a mesh pocket on the outside, and the other side has compression straps that help me get in as much clothes as I possibly can. These truly handy features help me pack more efficiently every time." — Krista Jones, former editor, Shopping

10
Best Customizable Carry-On Luggage
roamluggage.com

Best Customizable Carry-On Luggage

Roam Carry-On Luggage ($475)

With Roam's customizable luggage options, you can put your own personal spin on your carry-on suitcase. From choosing your own preferred colors and zipper lining to adding a monogrammed touch on the back, it's never been easier to design your dream luggage from scratch. Learn more about the customization process in this review of the Roam Carry-On Luggage.

Editor Quote: "Roam gives shoppers the opportunity to personalize their luggage down to the very last detail, allowing you to upgrade its size, change the color of the lining or zipper trim, and even monogram it. All of the customization can be done on Roam's website, so you don't have to worry about the hassle of going back and forth with a brand representative." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Shopping

11
Best Stylish Carry-On Luggage
tourparavel.com

Best Stylish Carry-On Luggage

Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus ($495)

Made from mostly recycled materials, the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is the reliable luggage you've been waiting for. It's sleek and lightweight, with a ton of useful features. We love its classic look, and it's available in a handful of colors, with a unique option to monogram the product for an additional $50. If you're traveling internationally and want something smaller, you can also try the Aviator Carry-On ($445). It's an editor favorite, and you can read our review of the Paravel Aviator Carry-On to learn more.

Editor Quote: "On top of having a smart design, this carry-on is also really chic — I can proudly pull this through the airport without feeling embarrassed by some clunky bag." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Shopping

12
Best Carry-On Luggage Set
us.delsey.com

Best Carry-On Luggage Set

Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage ($416, originally $520)

This Delsey carry-on looks so luxurious, no one would guess you bought it from Amazon. This pretty style can be at your door super quickly thanks to Amazon's fast shipping options, making it ideal for those spontaneous trips where you're in a time crunch and need a new suitcase ASAP. One editor also said the model was so spacious, she even took it as her sole luggage on a two-week trip to Europe in this review of the Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage.

Editor Quote: "From the deep, interior compartments and easy spinner wheels to the three-dial TSA approved combination lock, it's the details that really make this carry-on something special — and perfect for anyone who wants to travel with ease (because that's what a good vacation should entail anyway!)." — Kyley Warren, assistant editor, Shopping

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— Additional reporting by Anvita Reddy, Krista Jones, and India Yaffe


Kyley Warren (she/her) is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.



Anvita Reddy (she/her) is the former assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.



Krista Jones is a former editor of Shopping at PS.



India Yaffe was an associate editor on the Shopping team at PS for five years. She focused on curating the best fitness, fashion, beauty, and home products on the market for the PS audience.